Whirlpool's Clyde plant is Sandusky County's largest employer. It is also the largest washing machine plant in the world, according to the company. / File photo

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Watchdog/enterprise reporter

CLYDE – Whirlpool Corp. is moving production of its commercial front-loading washing machines from Mexico to the company’s Clyde plant. –

The move will create 80 to 100 new jobs during the next three years at the Clyde plant. –

The Clyde plant is the biggest washing machine plant in the world and Sandusky County’s largest employer. –

Whirlpool is also the largest employer in Marion County. The Marion manufactures the dryers that accompany the front loading washers being built in Clyde. –

“We’re really excited that we’re growing,” said Dan O’Brien, vice president of operations at the Clyde plant. “Any additional of new jobs is great for morale and also for a community perspective.” –

The plant will begin making the commercial front-loading machines in April, he said. –

The machines are used in Laundromats, hospitals and hotels, among other commercial uses, according to a statement from Whirlpool. Most are sold in the United States, but about 10 percent are exported to Asia, Europe, Australia and Latin America. –

The Clyde plant already makes the company’s top-loading commercial machines, so this move aligns the commercial products at one facility, O’Brien said. –

Meanwhile, Whirlpool’s Monterrey, Mexico, plant is adding a new residential washer production line to serve the Mexican market, O’Brien said. Employee levels at the plant are expected to be maintained. –